Broome County Officials Investigating Fatal Crash on I-81

Authorities in Broome County are looking into a deadly crash that occurred late Thursday morning along Interstate 81 in Binghamton.

Three Vehicles Reportedly Involved in Southbound Collision

According to officials, emergency personnel responded shortly after 11 a.m. to reports of a multi-vehicle accident near the Exit 12 off-ramp on I-81 southbound. The crash allegedly involved a U-Haul truck towing another vehicle, a red SUV, and a New York State Department of Transportation vehicle.

Driver Trapped as U-Haul Catches Fire

Responding deputies say that they arrived to find the U-Haul engulfed in flames with the driver still inside. Members of the Sheriff’s Office and state transportation workers worked together to put out the fire before extricating the individual from the vehicle.

U-Haul Driver Later Pronounced Dead at Hospital

The U-Haul driver was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center, where they were pronounced dead around 12:40 p.m., according to officials. The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of family.

Initial Findings Suggest Sudden Lane Change May Have Led to Crash

Preliminary reports suggest the U-Haul had been traveling south after merging from Route 17 when a red SUV allegedly attempted to cross multiple lanes to reach the exit ramp. Officials say the SUV reportedly struck the U-Haul, causing the truck to veer into a DOT vehicle stationed nearby.

Get our free mobile app

Investigation Remains Active

The Sheriff’s Accident Reconstruction Unit is handling the investigation, and no charges or citations have been announced as of yet. Further details are expected once next of kin are notified and additional evidence is reviewed.